Ernest Washington, Photography ’85, is a celebrated commercial photographer whose career was profoundly shaped by the support and mentorship he received through FIT’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP). With a client list that includes Coca-Cola, Shaquille O’Neal, Tyler Perry, Macy’s, and NASCAR, his work has reached some of the most iconic names in entertainment and advertising.
Last year, Ernest suffered a stroke and is in recovery. Today, his wife, Mary Cooke Washington, a fellow FIT alum, joins him to share their story.
Together, they reflect on the lasting impact of FIT and the pivotal role EOP played in Ernest’s life and career, even amid unexpected challenges.
FIT Newsroom: How did you two meet?
Mary Cooke Washington: Ernest and I met at FIT in 1981. I actually spotted him from across campus and told my two girlfriends, “That’s my husband.” I just knew right away. We got married six years later.
Your time at FIT clearly shaped your lives in lasting ways. You both had a strong connection with Betty Harris Merritt, the EOP director before Taur Orange. Can you tell me more about your relationship with her?
Ernest Washington: Ms. Merritt was my EOP counselor and program director. What began as a student-counselor relationship grew into a maternal bond. She even lived with us during her breast cancer treatment while building her home in Atlanta and named me executor of her will. Losing my mother at 10 left a void, and Ms. Merritt filled that space. She embraced us as family and was always there for us.
Can you share a practical example of how she helped you while you were a student?
Mary: When Ernest started Photography at FIT, buying books was expensive. Ms. Merritt set up an account for him at the bookstore so he could get everything he needed. She told him, “You can’t participate fully without your books.”
What lessons from Ms. Merritt still stick with you in your careers?
Ernest: While studying in the ’80s, I worked as a freelance photo assistant in New York. One photographer told me, “I’d hire you, but you’re two minutes late.” Ms. Merritt’s rule was clear: be the first one there.
Mary: Ernest’s Photography professor said, “Look around the room, look to your left and right. Only one of you is going to make it.” That proved true for both of us. I saw the same challenge in Fashion Buying and Merchandising. Though I wasn’t in EOP, the life skills I learned from Ms. Merritt made a real difference.
You both found success in highly competitive fields. What do you think made that possible?
Mary: I had a successful career in fashion, but I eventually left that behind to manage all of Ernest’s marketing, production, and operations. I could see how talented he was as a photographer and knew we could build something together. Negotiating the usage rights for his photos also gave us a significant financial boost.
Beyond that, Ernest’s perfectionism and discipline were rooted in his time at FIT, especially thanks to mentors like Ms. Merritt.
Speaking of success, how did major clients like Tyler Perry and Coca-Cola find your work?
Ernest: Mary and I opened Ernest Washington Studios in Atlanta in 1992. Most of the business came through word of mouth. People would ask, “Have you worked with Ernest Washington?” Looking back, that’s pretty special. For me, it was never about promoting myself, it was always about doing the work and creating great photos.
It sounds like Ms. Merritt was both strict and deeply supportive. Is there a particular moment that captures that balance?
Ernest: She once told me, “Don’t surprise me. If something happens, come to me right away with the facts so I can help.” She didn’t want excuses. “Don’t pee on me and tell me it’s raining,” she used to say. It was her way of saying, “Be honest and upfront with me, and I’ll do everything I can to help.”
As we celebrate 50 years of EOP, what does the program mean to you now?
Ernest: Ms. Merritt provided real support such as books, food, tutoring, making sure no one failed for lack of resources. If you failed, it was because you didn’t do the work, not because you lacked support. She advocated for us, securing extra help when needed, and taught us that hard work and asking for help made success possible.
Though today’s students face more distractions and may not always recognize the support available to them, EOP’s track record proves that those who are open to guidance still have the opportunity to succeed.
—Dana Flores, Advertising and Marketing Communications ’22